Hello there,
I have become rather giddy this month, as August is my favorite of the Summer season. It holds a special place in my heart for several reasons. I love that it has this magical quality—in that it's a liminal or in-between time—as a month bordering both Summer and Autumn. Historically it has also been a happy month for me. This month marks the third anniversary since my Wife and I moved into our little cottage, which eventually became the inspiration for this newsletter's name. We've been through a lot over the past three years, and the walls of our cottage have kept us safe and cozy. Even though we are renters, this 484-square-foot house feels like our first home together. In this month's issue of The Cozy Cottage, I'll be keeping with the themes of magic and home. I have lots to share including some reading recommendations as well as a delicious plant-based recipe for you to try in your own home. So let's get into it!
Happy August!
When I was considering the books I'd like to recommend this month, I kept thinking about stories that have enchanted or awed me in some way. So here are six books that fit that criteria. I've included a variety of fiction as well as poetry:
Did you know that this monthly newsletter also has a complementary blog by the same name? Well, now you do! I host The Cozy Cottage blog on my website. In my most recent post, I share some of the ways that my writing has helped me navigate challenging experiences: "Writing as Refuge."
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The Lovely & Cozy Book Club
Throughout August and September we're reading Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell by Susanna Clarke. This fantasy novel boasts a whopping 800+ pages (depending upon the particular edition), which is why we're spending two full months reading it! You can read along and participate in the book discussion by joining us on the Fable app*. There are dedicated chapter rooms, so you don't have to worry about stumbling across any spoilers.
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July in Review
If I had to summarize last month in one word, it would be "juggle." The entirety of July seemed to fly past, as I juggled one thing after the other. Amidst all the hard work, I was grateful to have the opportunity to take a short trip to Atlanta, which I wrote about in my blog: "Sweet Summer Travels."
One personal insight that I gained last month is that I really thrive from a steady routine. Now don't get me wrong...I love novelty and spontaneity! But as someone who has a tendency to burn out, a routine keeps me balanced. So towards the end of July, I decided to try out a new weekly routine to help me manage both my solopreneur and family-oriented responsibilities. I'm now in my second week of waking up at 6:00am every morning and falling asleep around 10:00pm every evening.
I think my younger self would be shocked to hear me say that I actually really like this routine! For me, there is something truly soothing and peaceful about rising with the sun. In addition to prioritizing my sleep, I've also been carving out intentional time for personal enjoyment. I know that this may sound really simple, but I feel so much calmer and more content since making quality time for myself. My younger self definitely got it right when it came to doing things "just for the fun of it!"
Never get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life. — Dolly Parton
Visual Storytelling
With July being a very busy month for me, I focused on creating short-form content for my YouTube channel. I'm happy to report that I've resumed my balance of long and short-form videos this month. I've included my most recent vlog as well as a two calming Shorts that I'm really proud of. I hope you enjoy!
Homemade Plant-based Pizza
This is an extra special recipe, because it's one that my Wife and I developed together. With her blessing, I'm excited to share it with you!
Vegan & Gluten Free, Serves 2 - 4
For the dough:
- 4 1/2 tsp of dry yeast
- 2 cups warm water
- 4 cups of gluten-free, all-purpose flour (we recommend the King Arthur Gluten-Free Measure for Measure Flour)
- 4 Tbsp of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), plus more as needed
- 2 tsp of salt
- 2 tsp of preferred dried or fresh herbs (we like to use rosemary)
Directions: Whisk the yeast and warm water together in a bowl and allow to sit for 15 minutes. Then add the EVOO, salt, herbs, and flour to the bowl and mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon. (You may need to add additional olive oil to achieve a wet and sticky dough. If so, add 1 Tbsp at a time and mix.)
Cover the bowl with a hot, damp kitchen towel and place in an unheated oven for 1 - 2 hours, allowing the dough to rise. Remove the risen dough from the oven and preheat to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, prepare a large baking tray either with parchment baking paper or more olive oil. Then use a baking spatula to add the dough to the tray, spreading it out into a rectangular shape. (The dough should be wet but not liquid. If needed, add more flour.)
Partially bake the pizza dough for 20 minutes, then remove to add the toppings...
For the toppings:
- Vegan pesto, homemade or store bought (we like Gotham Greens or Trader Joe's)
- Variety of sliced mushrooms (Chestnut, Shiitake, or Cremini, also known as "Baby Bella" are some of our favorites)
- Small handful of sun-dried tomatoes
- As much dairy-free shredded cheese as you prefer (we typically opt for a mozzarella style)
Directions continued: Spread the vegan pesto evenly across the parbaked dough with an offset spatula or a butter knife. Then add the veggies and finish by sprinkling over the dairy-free cheese. Once you have all your desired toppings, place the pizza back in the oven and bake for 20 - 30 minutes. (You want the crust to be slightly golden on the edges and the dairy-free cheese melted. Adjust the baking time as needed.)
Remove the pizza from the oven and allow to rest on the tray for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
This recipe is one that we make pretty often. It's one of our favorite Friday night dinners. My Wife usually makes the dough, while I tackle the toppings. We like to change up the veggies that we choose, depending upon what we're in the mood to eat. In addition to the toppings mentioned above, we've also tried bell peppers, red onion, olives, and even roasted chickpeas!
Until Next Time...
If you're seeing these words, thank you so much for reading this issue of The Cozy Cottage! It really does mean the world to me. As always, if you have any requests for topics you'd like me to cover in a future newsletter, simply reply to this email. Or if you'd just like to share some comments or feedback, I'd be happy to hear from you. I hope that your August is filled with lots of magical and homey moments. :)
Warmly,
Erin
